9/11 Zadroga Act Myeloid Leukemia Attorneys
Did you know that many September 11 victims are just now being diagnosed with cancers and other medical conditions that are caused by their exposure to toxic chemicals in the aftermath of the attacks? Particularly in Manhattan, the poisonous cloud that hovered after the World Trade Centers collapsed contained numerous harmful substances, including many carcinogens. Those who lived, worked, volunteered, or spent time in this area were exposed to these chemicals and may be eligible for compensation. Those who assisted in rescue and recovery efforts in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. may also be eligible.
In 2015, President Barack Obama signed a bill that reauthorized the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010. The bill also reauthorized the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund. Under these funds, 9/11 victims have until December 18, 2020, to file a claim seeking compensation for acquired disease and injuries, so long as they meet certain criteria.
Claimants must show that they were in the New York City exposure zone from the time of the attacks until May 30, 2002. The New York City exposure zone includes the area of Manhattan south of Canal Street, from the Hudson River in the west to Clinton Street in the east. This area is considered to be most affected by the attacks since this is where most of the toxic debris was located.
Claimants must also provide documentation that they have been diagnosed with one of the illnesses that have been approved for compensation by the funds. One of these approved illnesses is myeloid leukemia.
About Myeloid Leukemia
There are two types of myeloid leukemia: chronic and acute.
Acute myeloid leukemia, or AML, grows quickly in the bone marrow and in the blood. It is the most frequently diagnosed type of acute leukemia. With acute myeloid leukemia, the bone marrow starts producing blasts, which are cells that are not fully matured. Blasts usually develop into white blood cells, but with acute myeloid leukemia, they do not. Since white blood cells help fight infection, someone with acute myeloid leukemia cannot fight off illnesses as well.
Symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia include:
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Bruising
- Frequent infections
- Loss of appetite
- Red spots on the skin
- Pale skin
Chronic myeloid leukemia also impacts the blood and bone marrow. This cancer develops in the bone marrow and then spreads into the bloodstream. From there, it may reach the rest of the body. Chronic myeloid leukemia may develop into a more acute form of the disease that rapidly spreads.
Symptoms of chronic myeloid leukemia include:
- Night sweats
- Anemia
- Pale skin
- Weight loss
- Shortness of breath
- Bleeding easily
- Reduced stamina when exercising
Other symptoms of both types of leukemia may also be present.
Damages in a 9/11 injury claim
If you have sustained a covered condition, you may be entitled to financial. With the assistance of an experienced attorney, you will maximize the compensation you are entitled to, as your attorney will pursue all available routes of recovery.